Helmholtz Munich

Doctor using ultrasound equipment screening of pregnant woman.

Gestational diabetes is one of the most common comorbidities during pregnancy. Although the disease disappears after delivery, women with gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the following years. Therefore, these women are advised to have their blood glucose levels checked by a doctor 6-12 weeks after delivery and at one- to three-year intervals thereafter.

There are many different risk factors associated with developing type 2 diabetes after gestational diabetes. Scientists from the Institute of Diabetes Research (IDF) at Helmholtz Munich have developed a risk score that summarizes 4 key risk factors in only one digit. This number helps to estimate the personal risk of developing gestational diabetes in the next few years.

The score relies on data from 257 cases of gestational diabetes recorded between 1989 to 1999 and followed up for 20 years after delivery.

Analysis of the observed gestational diabetes cases revealed 4 risk categories (low, medium, high, extremely high) into which cases of gestational diabetes immediately after delivery can be classified. Based on this, predictions of how the risk of developing type 2 diabetes will develop over time can be made for different values of the score.

Detailed information on the risk score can be found in the original publication:
Köhler M, Ziegler AG, Beyerlein A. Development of a simple tool to predict the risk of postpartum diabetes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus. Acta Diabetol. 2015; DOI 10.1007/s00592-015-0814-0

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Enter your body weight during early pregnancy (kg):
Enter your body height (cm):

You have a risk score of , thus you are within the risk category:

Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 15 years of delivery is estimated to be around 15 - 35%. Despite your gestational diabetes, you therefore have a good chance of avoiding developing type 2 diabetes. For this, however, it is very important that you pay attention - also in the long term - to a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, sufficient exercise). If possible, also try to breastfeed your child for at least 3 months - this will also lower your risk and is also good for your child.

Regular medical control of blood glucose level every 1-3 years is recommended to all women who had gestational diabetes. Take advantage of this opportunity as well.

Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 15 years of delivery is estimated to be around 40-60%. Therefore, there is still a realistic chance of avoiding the development of the disease - do not give away this opportunity! To do so, be sure to maintain a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, adequate exercise) in the short and long term. If possible, also try to breastfeed your child for at least 3 months - this will also lower your risk and is also good for your child.

Regular medical control of blood glucose level every 1-3 years is recommended to all women who had gestational diabetes. Take advantage of this opportunity as well.

Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 5 years of delivery is estimated to be around 50-70%. You should therefore take steps to ensure a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, sufficient exercise) as soon as possible. Your doctor can support you in doing this. If possible, also try to breastfeed your child for at least 3 months - this will also lower your risk and is good for your child.

Regular blood glucose monitoring by a doctor every 1-3 years is recommended for all women who have had gestational diabetes. Because of your increased risk, it would be reasonable for you to follow these recommendations. Talk to your doctor and perhaps you can arrange regular checks.

Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 5 years of delivery is estimated to be over 70%. Regular and close monitoring of your blood glucose levels, such as annually, is advisable. Talk to your doctor, he or she can advise you on this. However, there is still the possibility of averting or at least delaying the disease if you take appropriate measures as soon as possible. Pay particular attention to a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, sufficient exercise). Your doctor can support you in doing this. If possible, also try to breastfeed your child for at least 3 months - this also reduces your risk and is good for your child.

Further information on gestational diabetes, type 2 diabetes and lifestyle adjustments can be found on the national diabetes information portal diabinfo - published by Helmholtz Munich, among others.

Risk for type 2 diabetes after gestational diabetes

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